My Journey to Veterinary Medicine

In the vibrant year of 2014, fresh out of secondary school, my heart was set on one singular passion and ambition—to become a human medical doctor. This dream had taken root during my senior secondary school days in class 2, fueled by a career guidance session organized by the Daura Old Students Association (DESA). I vividly remember a young medic, impeccably dressed, passionately narrating the wonders of being a medical doctor—saving lives, contributing significantly to society, and addressing the shortage of medical professionals in Nigeria, particularly in the northern region. Another catalyst for my dream was the inspiring book and movie "Gifted Hands" by Dr. Ben Carson. These experiences were transformative, shaping my destiny towards a career in Veterinary Medicine.

After completing my first Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and applying for Medicine and Surgery (MBBS) at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, fate had a different plan. I was offered admission to study Biochemistry in the Faculty of Life Sciences. I turned down the offer, determined to pursue my passion for MBBS.

Undeterred, I took another shot at the UTME and joined the School of Basic and Remedial Studies (SBRS) in Funtua, also part of Ahmadu Bello University. My journey was marred by challenges, including multiple fire outbreaks in the hostels, disrupting our academic activities. Though I faced personal traumas, my dreams propelled me forward.

During one such inferno, we were sent home for a break. I was involved in an accident weeks before the UTME. I sustained a fracture and dislocation in my left leg, adding another layer of adversity. However, a silver lining emerged when, after a brief resumption while I was on sickbed, another fire incident occurred, allowing me time to heal.

On sickbed, I persevered to study for my UTME, went to write the exams on crutches, facing technical issues at the exam center and enduring physical discomfort, where after the exams i went home with a more swollen leg. I had to go through a fresh procedure to allow effective healing. Despite the odds, God did! I scored an impressive score, reigniting my passion. With determination, I healed sufficiently to resume SBRS, where we completed the program in a condensed timeframe.

When it was time to choose our preferred courses, I applied for MBBS as my first choice and Veterinary Medicine as the second, despite limited knowledge about the latter. My father expressed concerns about Veterinary Medicine, but fate intervened, and I was admitted to study it. Though initially reluctant, I embraced the journey with faith.

The initial years were marked by half-hearted commitment as I pursued MBBS in my spare time, attempting UTME multiple times, scoring good grades but I wasn't given. It wasn't until my student internship at the Zonal Veterinary Clinic in Daura, under the guidance of Dr. Umar Salisu and Dr. Mustapha Koguna, that my passion for Veterinary Medicine blossomed. The Nat Geo series featuring Incredible Dr. Pol further fueled my dedication, revealing the wide-reaching impact of veterinary practice on both animal and public health.

Despite the absence of a classifying degree system in Veterinary Medicine, I aspired for excellence, aiming for a CGPA of 4.50 and above. While I fell short due to challenges graduating with a CGPA of 4.46, the wealth of skills, research exposure, and invaluable friendships and mentorships far exceeded my expectations.

In retrospect, I might not have reached the academic heights I initially aspired to in Veterinary Medicine. However, the field has gifted me far beyond just certificate and grades. It became a treasure trove of invaluable life lessons, the forging of enduring mentorships and friendships, and a discovery of a profound sense of purpose. Gratitude fills me for the path I've traversed, and today, I stand with confidence, knowing that I am exactly where I should be.

If I were to envision a hypothetical future, there would be no hesitation in choosing Veterinary Medicine once again. It's more than a mere label; it's a calling that goes beyond words. This discipline embodies the remarkable ability to advocate for and care for species that lack a voice of their own—a genuinely profound act of kindness that resonates deeply within me. In every step, Veterinary Medicine has become not just a career but a meaningful journey, a commitment to compassion, and enthusiasm to the impact one can make in the lives of both animals and humanity.

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